All
agreed progress had been made on the development of a
science plan to meet the Government's objectives for an
expanded industry-funded research programme that would
deliver productivity benefits for farmers.

Mr Sutton and
Mr Hodgson said the robust and comprehensive industry-funded
research programme that the Government's climate change
policy calls for appeared to be coming together.

"We are
optimistic, on this basis, that the sector will come through
with a self-funded science programme to meet both
environmental needs and farm productivity opportunities in
this important field of research. Further analysis of the
proposed science plan is needed, but the research and
funding it involves should be enough to remove the need for
a statutory levy.

"The Government's preference has always
been for industry funding of this research, with a statutory
levy as an option if the research effort was insufficient.
We will be pleased to avoid a levy if possible."

Mr Robb
said industry-led and funded research, based on clear
objectives and a sound business and research plan, was the
best way to achieve a win-win for farmers and the
environment.

He said the consortium, which existed before
the statutory levy proposal was announced, was
well-supported in the farming community. Negotiations with
the Government had added research priorities to those
already under way, particularly research into nitrous oxide
emissions.

The consortium is funded by Fonterra, Dairy
Insight, DEEResearch, Meat New Zealand, and Wrightsons. It
has also received some public funds from the Foundation for
Research, Science, and Technology. AgResearch is a member
and science provider to the consortium. The New Zealand
Fertiliser Manufacturers Research Association is also
finalising its involvement in the consortium.

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